Learning About Computer Networks

Introduction

Computer networks are a group of computers that are connected in order to share or exchange information. Computer networks can be in a home, business or any other setting. Two or more computers are needed to create a network. By definition, a hub is the central point to any network. The device allows for the equipment to connect through the hub to another piece of equipment or a device. Connecting things together is what the hub does in the scheme of computer networks.

A server is on the network in order to send information to the other computer or computers on the network. Software is needed to allow this communication to occur. Other computers or a computer will be the client on a network. The role of these machines is to receive information. Clients need special hardware and software to receive information from a server.

There are a few types of hardware that a network uses. Switches and routers are the hardware that directs the information to the devices. This helps networks function fast and secure, when the Ethernet card of the computer is connected to the wall jack of the network. They are also known as category cables, and they use a jack known as an RJ-45 to connect the computer to the network. The RJ-45 jack looks like a phone jack, but it is much larger. Network cards are inside of the computer and have a jack attached to them. They allow the computer to connect to the network by using a cable. Some older computers do not have a card, but it is possible to buy an external one from a computer store.

There are few types of networks that vary by size. MAN, LAN, WAN and home computer networks each has their own distinctive features. MAN networks coverage entire townships of cities, while WAN and LAN networks coverage complete buildings. Home computer networks are normally the smallest and just coverage one house. Wired computer networks use cables, hardware and connectors while wireless computer networks function by using radios, microwaves and infrared signals.

Information comes from the Internet to the modem, and the modem is connected to the hub. From there the hub broadcasts the signal to the different devices and computers it is connected to. There are three types of computer network hubs. A passive hub just lets the signal pass right through it without acknowledging anything happened. For the most part, a passive hub is like a darkened hallway. The broadcast signal would be the people in this instance. People pass through the darkened hallway, and nothing happens until the people reach the other end.

An active hub is a little busier than the passive hub. Being active requires some action on the part of the hub. It takes in the signal and regenerates it to put it where it needs to go. The active hub has an alias. it is also known as the multiport repeater. There are also intelligent hubs. This third type of hub is smart. It can do the exact same things that the other two can do, and it helps to make sure the resources for the networks are being used properly and efficiently.

Hubs are passageways for broadcast signals and information that goes through a network. Hubs can do this because they are the central point between the computers and the Internet. Hubs come in different speeds. it is best to make sure the hub is at the speed the network needs before purchasing. There are plenty of experts to consult either online or in a specialty store. There are wireless hubs to be had for wireless networks. It is best to make sure there are enough ports for a wireless network.

Tips and comments

Whatever your needs, creating a network will save you time and allow more efficient work to be completed.